Radioactive waste still unmanaged

Ever since it was established some 20 years ago, the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) has urged government to agree and establish a national radioactive waste management policy. I am shocked to read in the Institute's 2009 Annual Report that this matter is still outstanding.

Ever since it was established some 20 years ago, the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) has urged government to agree and establish a national radioactive waste management policy. I am shocked to read in the Institute's 2009 Annual Report that this matter is still outstanding.

Radioactive waste is produced mainly by hospitals and research laboratories. The radiological processes giving rise to the waste are vital and cannot be carried out without the production of such waste.

What is being asked by the institute is not only in line with international best practice but also required by European Directives and Irish law, yet after all these years we are not in compliance. Must we wait for an accident before a management system is put in place?

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